The purpose of the Historic Districts Commission is to preserve and protect buildings, places and other areas of historic or architectural significance. The four historic districts currently in existence - The Town Center, The Wayside Inn District, the King Philip District and the George Pitts Tavern District - are subject to restrictions and controls under Chapter 40 of the Acts of 1963 administered by the Historic Districts Commission.

These specific guidelines include exterior architectural and color features of building, landscaping, stone walls, signs, etc., located within an historic district.

The Historic Districts Commission consists of five members who are appointed by the Board of Selectmen: